Why Did PM Modi Skip Martyrdom Day Events in Punjab?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Deliberate absence from significant events can have political repercussions.
- Commemorative events aim to bridge cultural divides.
- Political leaders need to engage with local sentiments.
- The legacy of figures like Guru Tegh Bahadur remains vital to community identity.
Chandigarh, Nov 26 (NationPress) The Punjab Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) President, Aman Arora, voiced strong criticism towards the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding their “intentional absence” from the month-long events celebrating the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur in the state.
Arora expressed his disappointment, stating that the BJP leadership, despite being personally invited, showed a “clear disregard” for the sacrifice made by the ninth Sikh Guru, who sacrificed his life to defend the fundamental rights and religious freedom of Hindus.
In a media interaction, he explained that the commemorative events were planned to be entirely non-political, aiming to educate future generations about the extraordinary sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur. “We intentionally kept it non-political because the martyrdom of the ninth Guru Sahib is monumental and should not be sullied by political agendas. The aim was to transcend all religious, political, and social divisions,” stated Cabinet Minister Arora.
He noted that invitations were extended to a broad spectrum of leaders, including the President of India, the Prime Minister, all Union Ministers, and Chief Ministers. “We dispatched Cabinet Ministers to personally extend invitations. We refrained from publicizing this until now, hoping that the chance to pay homage to Guru Sahib would draw them to the sacred land of Sri Anandpur Sahib. However, I must now unequivocally state that they have revealed their true intentions,” he remarked.
Questioning the Prime Minister's decision, Arora pointed out that PM Modi was in Kurukshetra, a mere 12-15 minute flight from Anandpur Sahib, yet opted not to pay his respects. “This singular act has eliminated any remaining doubts and has unveiled the deep-seated animosity towards Punjab, Punjabiyat, and the Sikh community,” he added.